More COVID-19 cases have been reported in India. There were six deaths in the last 24 hours. Should you be scared? What precautions should you take?

Gravitas: Chinese Covid-19 continues to rise in India

The recent ban on onion exports by India, the world's largest onion exporter, has created a ripple effect across Asia, causing a surge in prices and forcing countries to seek alternative sources. &nbsp;

Implemented on December 8 due to a significant domestic price hike, the ban has impacted traditional buyers such as Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, and the United Arab Emirates. As India grapples with soaring onion prices, Asian consumers are facing the challenge of higher costs and limited alternatives.&nbsp;

For Asian consumers, especially in countries like Bangladesh, where onions are a culinary staple, the sudden spike in prices is proving difficult to cope with. &nbsp;

Reuters cited Mousumi Akhtar, a Dhaka resident who expressed the impact, stating, "Onions are needed for almost everything we cook. This sudden price hike is tough to swallow. I've had to cut back on how much I buy." &nbsp;

The dependence on Indian onions for various regional dishes, from Malaysian belacan shrimp paste to Nepali chicken chillies, has led to a serious setback as India's ban disrupts the supply chain.&nbsp;

Traders estimate that India contributes over half of all onion imports by Asian countries, emphasising its pivotal role in meeting the demand for this essential ingredient. The ban, has prompted importing nations like Bangladesh to explore alternative sources such as China, Egypt, and Turkey to overcome shortages. Bangladesh, anticipating general elections, has even initiated the sale of subsidised onions to mitigate the impact of the 50 per cent surge in prices caused by India's ban.&nbsp;

Nepal, heavily reliant on onion imports, faces a particularly challenging situation. Tirtharaj Chiluwal from Nepal's commerce ministry highlighted the scarcity. "Since the ban by India, we have monitored the supply situation at different places. There are no onions on sale," Reuters quoted him as saying.&nbsp;

Nepal is considering imports from China and may seek an exception from India to resume exports, according to ministry spokesperson Gajendra Kumar Thakur.&nbsp;

The ban has prompted importing nations to turn to more expensive alternatives from China, Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey, leading to a hike in prices. &nbsp;

Ajit Shah, an Indian exporter, emphasised the significance of India's role in maintaining its global market position. He suggested that India, with an abundant domestic supply, should reconsider the ban to stabilise prices. &nbsp;

However, the likelihood of lifting the ban before next year's general elections appears slim, given the Indian government's priority to curb food prices.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The recent ban on onion exports by India, the world's largest onion exporter, has created a ripple effect across Asia, causing a surge in prices and forcing countries to seek alternative sources.

The recent ban on onion exports by India, the world's largest onion exporter, has created a ripple effect across Asia, causing a surge in prices and forcing countries to seek alternative sources. Implemented on December 8 due to a significant domestic price hike, the ban has impacted traditional buyers such as Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, and the United Arab Emirates. As India grapples with soaring onion prices, Asian consumers are facing the challenge of higher costs and limited alternatives. For Asian consumers, especially in countries like Bangladesh, where onions are a culinary staple, the sudden spike in prices is proving difficult to cope with. Reuters cited Mousumi Akhtar, a Dhaka resident who expressed the impact, stating, "Onions are needed for almost everything we cook. This sudden price hike is tough to swallow. I've had to cut back on how much I buy." The dependence on Indian onions for various regional dishes, from Malaysian belacan shrimp paste to Nepali chicken chillies, has led to a serious setback as India's ban disrupts the supply chain. Traders estimate that India contributes over half of all onion imports by Asian countries, emphasising its pivotal role in meeting the demand for this essential ingredient. The ban, has prompted importing nations like Bangladesh to explore alternative sources such as China, Egypt, and Turkey to overcome shortages. Bangladesh, anticipating general elections, has even initiated the sale of subsidised onions to mitigate the impact of the 50 per cent surge in prices caused by India's ban. Nepal, heavily reliant on onion imports, faces a particularly challenging situation. Tirtharaj Chiluwal from Nepal's commerce ministry highlighted the scarcity. "Since the ban by India, we have monitored the supply situation at different places. There are no onions on sale," Reuters quoted him as saying. Nepal is considering imports from China and may seek an exception from India to resume exports, according to ministry spokesperson Gajendra Kumar Thakur. The ban has prompted importing nations to turn to more expensive alternatives from China, Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey, leading to a hike in prices. Ajit Shah, an Indian exporter, emphasised the significance of India's role in maintaining its global market position. He suggested that India, with an abundant domestic supply, should reconsider the ban to stabilise prices. However, the likelihood of lifting the ban before next year's general elections appears slim, given the Indian government's priority to curb food prices. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India's onion export ban sends shockwaves across Asia. Here's why

India's growth story has become a poll pitch as Pakistan heads to election season. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has lauded India's economic progress for two days in a row. During a public address, Sharif said that India had reached the moon, while Pakistan was yet to rise from the ground.

Gravitas: Nawaz Sharif lauds India again | India becomes pitch for progress in Pak polls

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments are seen as a change in tone after months of rhetoric. He also says India's tone with the country has changed ever since Washington warned New Delhi of its role in a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpawant Singh Pannun on American soil.

Trudeau on Pannun Murder Plot: US indictment triggered a change | World News | WION

In a shocking cyber crime that took place in India's Uttar Pradesh, a cyber criminal targeted grieving parents with missing children, promising them to&nbsp;

The man behind these revolting crimes has been identified as a 28-year-old tech graduate. As per reports, he conned almost 950 people.

<h2>A long con</h2>

As per an NDTV report, the computer graduate would prey on grieving families, conning them out of small amounts to avoid triggering suspicions.

The case came to light last month, on November 15, when the Indian capital Delhi's Wazirabad police station received a complaint. A father reported that his daughter had gone missing. A report was registered and the missing child's details were uploaded to the missing portal of the Delhi police.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-mumbai-doctors-to-now-face-biometric-verification-for-attendance-at-public-hospitals-671800">India: Mumbai doctors working in public hospitals to mark biometric attendance to cut patients’ wait time</a>

A few days later, the worried family received a call that raised their hopes: a man told them that their daughter had been found but that they need to transfer ₹8,000 (around $96) to help get her back. The family, using a QR code shared with them, transferred the money, awaiting their child's return. However, they never heard back from the man. They filed a complaint which led to the conman being traced. &nbsp;

<h2>The man behind the con &nbsp;</h2>

Identified as Shyamsundar Chauhan from Mau in Uttar Pradesh, the cyber conman is a 28-year-old graduate in Computer Applications.&nbsp;

Preying on distressed families, he would ask for small amounts of money ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹40,000 ($24 to $480). To pick his victims, he would scour police databases on missing people. This includes the ZIPNet (Zonal Integrated Police Network).

Talking to the press, Manoj Kumar Meena, Deputy Commissioner of Police, North Delhi revealed that in the last few days they "received multiple written and verbal complaints from parents in the North Delhi district that their missing child had been found, and they had paid money to police personnel, but they got no response after that, or were not reunited with their child."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criminal-laws-in-india-death-penalty-for-mob-lynching-and-sedition-law-to-be-scrapped-5-major-points-671805">Criminal laws in India: Death penalty for mob-lynching, sedition law to be scrapped - 5 major points</a>

"During our investigation, we found out about a gang that would retrieve the numbers of parents of missing children from publicly available databases and call them up."

The Deputy Commissioner said that the accused would often pose as a police officer and ask for money to facilitate the child's travel from another city.&nbsp;

"He would say the child has been recovered and ask for a small sum, saying that the child was in other cities, like Dehradun, and the money was needed to get them back. The parents would transfer the amount. One such incident took place under the Wazirabad police station, where ₹8,000 was taken from a family to get their daughter back."

As per the police, the predatory conman was arrested from Mau, Uttar Pradesh. Their investigation revealed that he had cheated 41 people from North Delhi and 904 people from Delhi-NCR.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking cyber crime that took place in India's Uttar Pradesh, a cyber criminal targeted grieving parents with missing children, promising them to The man behind these revolting crimes has been identified as a 28-year-old tech graduate.

In a shocking cyber crime that took place in India's Uttar Pradesh, a cyber criminal targeted grieving parents with missing children, promising them to The man behind these revolting crimes has been identified as a 28-year-old tech graduate. As per reports, he conned almost 950 people. A long con As per an NDTV report, the computer graduate would prey on grieving families, conning them out of small amounts to avoid triggering suspicions. The case came to light last month, on November 15, when the Indian capital Delhi's Wazirabad police station received a complaint. A father reported that his daughter had gone missing. A report was registered and the missing child's details were uploaded to the missing portal of the Delhi police. Also read | India: Mumbai doctors working in public hospitals to mark biometric attendance to cut patients’ wait time A few days later, the worried family received a call that raised their hopes: a man told them that their daughter had been found but that they need to transfer ₹8,000 (around $96) to help get her back. The family, using a QR code shared with them, transferred the money, awaiting their child's return. However, they never heard back from the man. They filed a complaint which led to the conman being traced. The man behind the con Identified as Shyamsundar Chauhan from Mau in Uttar Pradesh, the cyber conman is a 28-year-old graduate in Computer Applications. Preying on distressed families, he would ask for small amounts of money ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹40,000 ($24 to $480). To pick his victims, he would scour police databases on missing people. This includes the ZIPNet (Zonal Integrated Police Network). Talking to the press, Manoj Kumar Meena, Deputy Commissioner of Police, North Delhi revealed that in the last few days they "received multiple written and verbal complaints from parents in the North Delhi district that their missing child had been found, and they had paid money to police personnel, but they got no response after that, or were not reunited with their child." Also read | Criminal laws in India: Death penalty for mob-lynching, sedition law to be scrapped - 5 major points "During our investigation, we found out about a gang that would retrieve the numbers of parents of missing children from publicly available databases and call them up." The Deputy Commissioner said that the accused would often pose as a police officer and ask for money to facilitate the child's travel from another city. "He would say the child has been recovered and ask for a small sum, saying that the child was in other cities, like Dehradun, and the money was needed to get them back. The parents would transfer the amount. One such incident took place under the Wazirabad police station, where ₹8,000 was taken from a family to get their daughter back." As per the police, the predatory conman was arrested from Mau, Uttar Pradesh. Their investigation revealed that he had cheated 41 people from North Delhi and 904 people from Delhi-NCR. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Cyber criminal accesses police database, cons 945 families who reported their kids missing

Calling India an important strategic partner, the White House once again called for full investigation into alleged failed plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments on are seen as a change in tone after months of rhetoric. He also says India's tone with the country has changed ever since Washington warned New Delhi of its role in a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpawant Singh Pannun on American soil.

Pannun Murder Plot: Canada PM tones down rhetoric on India | World DNA | WION

MUMBAI – The state of Uttar Pradesh in India has the highest number of electric vehicles in the country, as per latest data of government in the Lok Sabha.

Infact, the government says there is no slowdown in the sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in India and the sales is only growing compared to last year.

Based on the shared data in the parliament on the status of electric and hybrid vehicle in use in 2023, it can be found that, the states those with highest hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) in use are Uttar Pradesh with around 7.75 lakh vehicles followed by Maharashtra with around 5.17 lakh and Karnataka with around 4 lakh vehicles.

Whereas the states with the highest ELECTRIC Battery-Operated Vehicles (BOV) are Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Gujarat.

According to the government data, India currently has around 30 lakh registered EVs on Indian roads. Annual electric vehicle sales in India are expected to reach close to 20 million units by 2030 with bulk of the volumes contributed by electric two and three-wheelers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/electric-vehicle-industry-faces-challenges-as-demand-growth-slows-report-651504">Also read |&nbsp;Electric vehicle industry faces challenges as demand growth slows: Report</a>

Mass mobility, personal mobility, and shared mobility will drive electrification in India in the coming years.

The government of India says that they have been focussing on increasing the share of electric vehicles sold in the country across segments. It has undertaken various initiatives to help drive the demand for EVs in the country including:

- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India): The government notified Phase-II of FAME India Scheme initially for a period of 5 years w.e.f. April 1, 2019 with a total budgetary support of Rs 10,000 crore.

- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry: The scheme provides incentives up to 18 per cent for electric vehicles.

- GST on electric vehicles and chargers/ charging stations for electric vehicles has been reduced to 5 per cent.

Also watch |&nbsp;World’s quickest electric vehicle does 0-100 km/h in 0.96 seconds

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- Battery-operated vehicles will be given green license plates and be exempted from permit requirements.

- States have been advised to waive road tax on EVs, which in turn will help reduce the initial cost of EVs.

MUMBAI – The state of Uttar Pradesh in India has the highest number of electric vehicles in the country, as per latest data of government in the Lok Sabha. Infact, the government says there is no slowdown in the sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in India and the sales is only growing compared to last year.

MUMBAI – The state of Uttar Pradesh in India has the highest number of electric vehicles in the country, as per latest data of government in the Lok Sabha. Infact, the government says there is no slowdown in the sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in India and the sales is only growing compared to last year. Based on the shared data in the parliament on the status of electric and hybrid vehicle in use in 2023, it can be found that, the states those with highest hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) in use are Uttar Pradesh with around 7.75 lakh vehicles followed by Maharashtra with around 5.17 lakh and Karnataka with around 4 lakh vehicles. Whereas the states with the highest ELECTRIC Battery-Operated Vehicles (BOV) are Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Gujarat. According to the government data, India currently has around 30 lakh registered EVs on Indian roads. Annual electric vehicle sales in India are expected to reach close to 20 million units by 2030 with bulk of the volumes contributed by electric two and three-wheelers. Also read | Electric vehicle industry faces challenges as demand growth slows: Report Mass mobility, personal mobility, and shared mobility will drive electrification in India in the coming years. The government of India says that they have been focussing on increasing the share of electric vehicles sold in the country across segments. It has undertaken various initiatives to help drive the demand for EVs in the country including: - Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India): The government notified Phase-II of FAME India Scheme initially for a period of 5 years w.e.f. April 1, 2019 with a total budgetary support of Rs 10,000 crore. - Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry: The scheme provides incentives up to 18 per cent for electric vehicles. - GST on electric vehicles and chargers/ charging stations for electric vehicles has been reduced to 5 per cent. Also watch | World’s quickest electric vehicle does 0-100 km/h in 0.96 seconds - Battery-operated vehicles will be given green license plates and be exempted from permit requirements. - States have been advised to waive road tax on EVs, which in turn will help reduce the initial cost of EVs.

India's Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of electric vehicles in the country

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has made a massive charge at the Pakistani military. He has blamed the military for the country's economic problems. In a recent address, Sharif said that neither India nor the U.S. are responsible for Pakistan's problems. 'We have shot ourselves in the foot,' he said.

Shift in Pakistan's anti-India rhetoric amidst election frenzy?

In order to combat the Houthi danger to the commercial boats operating in the area, India has sent its warships to the Red Sea. INS Kochi and INS Kolkata are now conducting patrols in the Gulf of Aden, which links the Arabian Sea with the Red Sea.

Indian stations two destroyers off Aden Coast for maritime security | Fight against Houthis

The Indian government has decided to entrust the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with the duty to oversee the ‘comprehensive’ security of the Parliament complex, media reports said Thursday (Dec 21) citing sources&nbsp;familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

CISF is India's paramilitary force that is responsible for providing security to various critical infrastructure installations, including government buildings. It comes directly under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;

This decision follows a recent breach of security during which individuals entered the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian Parliament) chamber, released smoke, and shouted slogans.

News agency PTI, while citing its sources added that the Union Home Ministry, led by Amit Shah, has directed a survey of the Parliament building complex to facilitate a "regular deployment of CISF security and fire wing on a comprehensive pattern".

<h2>Survey to begin next week</h2>

The survey will be conducted by experts from the CISF's government building security (GBS) unit along with the current Parliament security team and will kick off later this week.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-sounds-alarm-on-indias-rising-debt-warns-of-exceeding-100pc-of-gdp-672040">IMF sounds alarm on India's rising debt, warns of exceeding 100pc of GDP&nbsp;</a>

This will bring both the new and old Parliament complex under a comprehensive security cover.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-raises-onus-on-cough-syrup-manufacturers-bans-anti-cold-drug-combination-for-kids-under-four-672044">India raises onus on cough syrup manufacturers; bans anti-cold drug combination for kids under four</a>

The existing security elements, including the Parliament Security Service (PSS), Delhi Police, and the Parliament Duty Group (PDG) of the CRPF, will also be integrated, as per the sources cited by the media agency.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canadas-pm-changes-tone-on-india-pannun-murder-plot-672066">Canada's PM changes tone on India | Pannun Murder Plot</a>

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A committee, led by CRPF Director General Anish Dayal Singh, is examining overall security issues and will provide recommendations for improvement to the Union Home Ministry, the report noted.&nbsp;

<h2>Three more Opposition MPs suspended from Lok Sabha</h2>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;three more MPs from the Opposition were suspended for "unruly behaviour"&nbsp;in the lower house of the Indian Parliament on Thursday (Dec 21). This comes amid INDIA bloc leaders&nbsp;holding protests against the move.

Earlier, while speaking on the Indian Parliament security breach, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly said that the incident warrants "seriousness" and must not be "underestimated" as all necessary actions will be taken to investigate the intentions behind what transpired on December 13.

“The seriousness of the incident that happened in Parliament should not be underestimated at all. The Speaker sir is taking necessary steps with full seriousness. The investigating agencies are investigating the matter strictly. It is important for us to go deep into the matter to understand what are the elements and intentions behind this. Solutions should also be found with one mind. Everyone should avoid debate or resistance on such topics,” a newspaper quoted PM Modi as saying.

Two individuals carrying smoke canisters jumped from the public gallery and entered the Lok Sabha floor on December 13, the 22nd anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has decided to entrust the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with the duty to oversee the ‘comprehensive’ security of the Parliament complex, media reports said Thursday (Dec 21) citing sources familiar with the matter.

The Indian government has decided to entrust the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with the duty to oversee the ‘comprehensive’ security of the Parliament complex, media reports said Thursday (Dec 21) citing sources familiar with the matter. CISF is India's paramilitary force that is responsible for providing security to various critical infrastructure installations, including government buildings. It comes directly under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs. This decision follows a recent breach of security during which individuals entered the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian Parliament) chamber, released smoke, and shouted slogans. News agency PTI, while citing its sources added that the Union Home Ministry, led by Amit Shah, has directed a survey of the Parliament building complex to facilitate a "regular deployment of CISF security and fire wing on a comprehensive pattern". Survey to begin next week The survey will be conducted by experts from the CISF's government building security (GBS) unit along with the current Parliament security team and will kick off later this week. Also Read | IMF sounds alarm on India's rising debt, warns of exceeding 100pc of GDP This will bring both the new and old Parliament complex under a comprehensive security cover. Also Read | India raises onus on cough syrup manufacturers; bans anti-cold drug combination for kids under four The existing security elements, including the Parliament Security Service (PSS), Delhi Police, and the Parliament Duty Group (PDG) of the CRPF, will also be integrated, as per the sources cited by the media agency. Watch | Canada's PM changes tone on India | Pannun Murder Plot × A committee, led by CRPF Director General Anish Dayal Singh, is examining overall security issues and will provide recommendations for improvement to the Union Home Ministry, the report noted. Three more Opposition MPs suspended from Lok Sabha Meanwhile, three more MPs from the Opposition were suspended for "unruly behaviour" in the lower house of the Indian Parliament on Thursday (Dec 21). This comes amid INDIA bloc leaders holding protests against the move. Earlier, while speaking on the Indian Parliament security breach, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly said that the incident warrants "seriousness" and must not be "underestimated" as all necessary actions will be taken to investigate the intentions behind what transpired on December 13. “The seriousness of the incident that happened in Parliament should not be underestimated at all. The Speaker sir is taking necessary steps with full seriousness. The investigating agencies are investigating the matter strictly. It is important for us to go deep into the matter to understand what are the elements and intentions behind this. Solutions should also be found with one mind. Everyone should avoid debate or resistance on such topics,” a newspaper quoted PM Modi as saying. Two individuals carrying smoke canisters jumped from the public gallery and entered the Lok Sabha floor on December 13, the 22nd anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Parliament security breach: Centre ropes in CISF to guard building complex

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- India has urged the Group of Seven (G7) countries to delay an incoming ban on Russian diamonds because the rules to trace the origins of gems remain unclear, two sources aware of the matter said.

India urges G7 to delay Russian Diamonds ban, seek clarity on tracing rules

Following the US warning to New Delhi about its suspected role in a failed plan to murder a Sikh separatist leader on US soil, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he has observed a "tonal shift" in India's stance towards Ottawa.

India-Canada ties: Canada's PM sees change in India's tone after US involvement |Pannun murder plot

The Indian Navy will host its largest-ever multinational exercise - "Milan - 2024" - from February 19 to February 27. The Navy announced on Wednesday that the 12th iteration of the exercise will be hosted by the Visakhapatnam-based Eastern Naval Command in the Bay of Bengal.

Indian Navy to host 'Milan 2024' exercise, largest ever multilateral drill

After Kerala, JN.1 variant has now been found in Goa. 21 new cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours which makes it 2,669 active cases. Singapore has become a country of concern, Indonesia is asking travellers to be vigilant. In Malaysia, cases have doubled. This is December Deja Vu.indi

Covid-19 India: Goa reports highest number of 'JN.1' cases

In a significant development, France has submitted its response to India's tender for buying 26 Rafale Marine jets for New Delhi. The response to India's letter of acceptance has reportedly been submitted by France in New Delhi.

France submits response to India's Rafale tender

The IPL 2024 auction was held in Dubai on Dec 19. It was the first time that an IPL auction was held outside India. The mega affair was a successful event with Mitchell Starc (INR 24.75 crore) and Pat Cummins (INR 20.50 crore) ending as the two most expensive buys.

Most Expensive Indians in IPL 2024 auction

After Kerala, JN.1 variant has now been found in Goa. 21 new cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours which makes it 2,669 active cases. Singapore has become a country of concern, Indonesia is asking travellers to be vigilant. In Malaysia, cases have doubled. This is December Deja Vu.

Covid-19 India: 2,669 active cases of Covid in India, highest surge in Kerala

Covid-19 India: Goa reports highest number of JN.1 cases; Active cases reach 2,669 in India | WION

Amid a significant uptick in COVID-19 cases attributed to the recently discovered JN.1 variant, several Indian states have promptly implemented preemptive measures in response to the escalating infections, issuing health advisories that stress the imperative of mask-wearing and widespread testing.

<h2>Recent numbers&nbsp;paint a worrisome picture</h2>

In the last 24 hours, the nation reported a total of 358 new Covid cases, with an alarming 300 cases emerging in Kerala alone. Tragically, six Covid-related deaths were documented during this period. India currently has 2,669 active Covid cases, marking December 20 as the day with the highest daily figure, 614 cases, since May.

Despite being categorised as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organisation, the JN.1 subvariant of Covid is presently deemed to pose no significant risk, according to the latest data from the health ministry dashboard.

Identified symptoms associated with the Covid subvariant JN.1 include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headaches, occasional gastrointestinal issues, severe fatigue, exhaustion, and muscle weakness. Medical experts strongly advise seeking a Covid test if these symptoms persist for more than two days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-number-of-active-covid-cases-cross-2000-mark-in-kerala-goa-tops-list-of-jn1-cases-ahead-of-christmas-672009">Also read |&nbsp;India: Number of active Covid cases cross 2,000-mark in Kerala; Goa tops list of JN.1 cases ahead of Christmas</a>

<h2>Expert Caution from former&nbsp;WHO chief&nbsp;</h2>

Former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan, addressing the surge in infections, cautions against underestimating Covid as a common cold.

Dr Swaminathan, who spoke exclusively to NDTV - has cautioned against dismissing Covid as a common cold, not just because of the people who fall severely ill, but because of the long-term effects of the disease, including increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and mental health problems.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: 2,311 active Covid cases, highest surge in Kerala; 341 new JN.1 Covid strain cases

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Swaminathan warns about the possibility of new variants becoming more transmissible over time.

She stressed on the variant's potential to evade existing antibody responses, posing a risk of recurrent waves of infections among previously infected individuals.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid a significant uptick in COVID-19 cases attributed to the recently discovered JN.1 variant, several Indian states have promptly implemented preemptive measures in response to the escalating infections, issuing health advisories that stress the imperative of mask-wearing and widespread testing.

Amid a significant uptick in COVID-19 cases attributed to the recently discovered JN.1 variant, several Indian states have promptly implemented preemptive measures in response to the escalating infections, issuing health advisories that stress the imperative of mask-wearing and widespread testing. Recent numbers paint a worrisome picture In the last 24 hours, the nation reported a total of 358 new Covid cases, with an alarming 300 cases emerging in Kerala alone. Tragically, six Covid-related deaths were documented during this period. India currently has 2,669 active Covid cases, marking December 20 as the day with the highest daily figure, 614 cases, since May. Despite being categorised as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organisation, the JN.1 subvariant of Covid is presently deemed to pose no significant risk, according to the latest data from the health ministry dashboard. Identified symptoms associated with the Covid subvariant JN.1 include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headaches, occasional gastrointestinal issues, severe fatigue, exhaustion, and muscle weakness. Medical experts strongly advise seeking a Covid test if these symptoms persist for more than two days. Also read | India: Number of active Covid cases cross 2,000-mark in Kerala; Goa tops list of JN.1 cases ahead of Christmas Expert Caution from former WHO chief Former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan, addressing the surge in infections, cautions against underestimating Covid as a common cold. Dr Swaminathan, who spoke exclusively to NDTV - has cautioned against dismissing Covid as a common cold, not just because of the people who fall severely ill, but because of the long-term effects of the disease, including increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and mental health problems. Also watch | India: 2,311 active Covid cases, highest surge in Kerala; 341 new JN.1 Covid strain cases Swaminathan warns about the possibility of new variants becoming more transmissible over time. She stressed on the variant's potential to evade existing antibody responses, posing a risk of recurrent waves of infections among previously infected individuals. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid JN.1: India's Chandigarh makes wearing masks mandatory in public places amid recent uptick in cases

Tamil Nadu Floods: Floods in Tamil Nadu leave hundreds stranded. Heavy rain has flooded several parts of Tamil Nadu. Flood left Tamil Nadu with inundating roads, affecting train services and authorities scrambling to rescue those stranded.

Tamil Nadu Floods: Many evacuated, relief materials distributed

Well it's a big day for Shah Rukh Khan fans as his third and last film of 2023 which is Dunki is currently running in a theater near you. Will King Khan hit a hattrick with his latest release? Let's find out.

Dunki: SRK returns to the big screen with his 3rd film of 2023

There has been an uproar in the Indian Parliament. A record number of MPs have been suspended. The opposition is protesting. But what are the restrictions imposed on suspended MPs? Watch here.

What are the restrictions imposed on MPs suspended from the Indian Parliament?

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round-up of global stories from the world of business and economy.<o:p></o:p>

India's onion export ban sends shockwaves across Asia. Here's why<o:p></o:p>

The recent ban on onion exports by India, the world's largest onion exporter, has created a ripple effect across Asia, causing a surge in prices and forcing countries to seek alternative sources.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

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India urges to G7 for delay Russian diamond ban, seeks clarity on tracing rules<o:p></o:p>

In a bid to address uncertainties surrounding the tracing of diamond origins, India has urged the Group of Seven (G7) nations to delay the impending ban on Russian diamonds.<o:p></o:p>

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Protests erupt in Buenos Aires against Milei's economic overhaul<o:p></o:p>

In a display of public discontent, thousands took to the streets of Buenos Aires to voice their opposition to President Javier Milei's economic shock measures.<o:p></o:p>

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UK Supreme Court rules against AI as patent 'Inventor' in landmark case<o:p></o:p>

The UK Supreme Court has ruled against the notion that artificial intelligence (AI) can be recognised as an inventor for patent rights.<o:p></o:p>

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IMF sounds alarm on India's rising debt, warns of exceeding 100pc of GDP<o:p></o:p>

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a cautionary note, warning that India's general government debt could surpass 100 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) in the medium term.<o:p></o:p>

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Toyota initiates global recall of 1.12 million vehicles over airbag concerns<o:p></o:p>

Toyota Motor has announced a comprehensive recall due to a potential airbag issue linked to a sensor short circuit which in turn is set of affect 1.12 million vehicles worldwide. <o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/toyota-initiates-global-recall-of-112-million-vehicles-over-airbag-concerns-672057">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

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WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round-up of global stories from the world of business and economy. India's onion export ban sends shockwaves across Asia.

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round-up of global stories from the world of business and economy. India's onion export ban sends shockwaves across Asia. Here's why The recent ban on onion exports by India, the world's largest onion exporter, has created a ripple effect across Asia, causing a surge in prices and forcing countries to seek alternative sources. Read more here India urges to G7 for delay Russian diamond ban, seeks clarity on tracing rules In a bid to address uncertainties surrounding the tracing of diamond origins, India has urged the Group of Seven (G7) nations to delay the impending ban on Russian diamonds. Read more here Protests erupt in Buenos Aires against Milei's economic overhaul In a display of public discontent, thousands took to the streets of Buenos Aires to voice their opposition to President Javier Milei's economic shock measures. Read more here UK Supreme Court rules against AI as patent 'Inventor' in landmark case The UK Supreme Court has ruled against the notion that artificial intelligence (AI) can be recognised as an inventor for patent rights. Read more here IMF sounds alarm on India's rising debt, warns of exceeding 100pc of GDP The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a cautionary note, warning that India's general government debt could surpass 100 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) in the medium term. Read more here Toyota initiates global recall of 1.12 million vehicles over airbag concerns Toyota Motor has announced a comprehensive recall due to a potential airbag issue linked to a sensor short circuit which in turn is set of affect 1.12 million vehicles worldwide. Read more here WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WION Business Wrap | India’s onion ban, Russian diamond ban, Protests in Buenos Aires & more

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